Samuel Gonzalez Jr, is a proud son of East New York, Brooklyn and Ozone Park, Queens. For over forty years, Sam has spent his career as a union advocate representing workers across New York State; dedicated to charting a new course for the labor movement in New York City and beyond.
Samuel started his career in labor as a shop steward with the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU), and was subsequently promoted to lead organizer. Recognized for his ability to inspire and lead, he was recruited by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in 2012.
From 2012 to his election to the Suffolk County Legislature in 2019, Sam led IBEW Local 1430 as President, where he served as lead negotiator for the union in contract talks with major corporations in the United States.
Aside from his union work, Sam has been actively involved in the Long Island community, serving as both an activist and advocate for Brentwood Hamlet in organizations like the Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus.
Sam continues to reside in Brentwood, his newfound home of over twenty years, and is a dedicated husband to Aggie, father to Samantha, and grandfather to Ellie.